You A Guide to Floriade 2025

One of the most magical components of Floriade is NightFest, a special after-dark experience that runs on select evenings. Floriade’s NightFest gives you the chance to see Commonwealth Park in a whole new light – literally! Here’s what to know about NightFest in 2025:

NightFest Dates & Times

In 2025, NightFest will run for four nights only: Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October 2025. Each night, the gates open at 6:30pm and the event runs until 10:30pm. That means four opportunities to catch the magic. (These dates fall on the Thursday through Sunday of the long weekend at the start of October, which is often a popular time with many visitors in town.)

What to Expect

During NightFest, Commonwealth Park is transformed into an illuminated wonderland. Picture this: the flower beds you saw in daylight are now glowing with creative light installations, strings of fairy lights adorn the trees, and artfully lit sculptures and lanterns line the paths. Illuminated gardens turn the tulips and daffodils into a rainbow of colours under the night sky. There’s often background music or projections adding to the ambiance. It’s truly a feast for the eyes and feels like stepping into a fairy tale garden after dark.

Entertainment & Activities

NightFest isn’t just strolling around (though that’s lovely too). Each night features live entertainment such as music acts, DJs, or roving performers adding a sense of excitement. In past years, there have been acrobatic performers, fire twirlers, and dance troupes popping up around the park. One highlight for adults in recent NightFests has been the Kiss Bang cabaret show, an 18+ comedy and burlesque cabaret that runs twice nightly in an intimate venue on-site (This might continue in 2025 – it’s a popular ticketed show within NightFest for those looking for a bit of cheeky fun).

For families, don’t worry – the majority of NightFest attractions are family-friendly. Kids will be mesmerized by the lights and may enjoy things like neon-lit swings or interactive light art. Just note that the cabaret and possibly some bar areas are adults-only, but you can easily steer clear of those if you have little ones in tow.

Food & Drink

NightFest is a great time to enjoy an evening snack or dinner under the stars. You’ll find food trucks and stalls offering warm meals (think gourmet burgers, noodles, or tacos), desserts like hot churros or doughnuts, and hot drinks (a hot chocolate as you wander through the tulips at night – yes please!). There are also often pop-up bars serving Canberra craft beers, regional wines, or festive cocktails. It’s an awesome atmosphere to grab a bite and relax in one of the outdoor seating areas with live music playing nearby.

NightFest Tickets

As mentioned earlier, NightFest requires a paid ticket for entry. Remember to purchase your NightFest 2025 tickets in advance online, because capacity is limited and it often sells out. You’ll need a ticket for each night you want to attend. If you’re a photography enthusiast, consider going on one of the first nights when the displays are fresh – NightFest is a photographer’s dream, with countless photo opportunities of glowing flowers and creative light displays.

Why You’ll Love It

Many people who’ve been to Floriade multiple times say NightFest is a must-see at least once. It offers a completely different vibe from the daytime festival – more romantic and enchanting. Couples often make a special date night out of it, and families love the novelty of a “nighttime garden” adventure. If you’re already in Canberra for Floriade, adding NightFest to your itinerary will give you the full experience of the festival’s “bright” side and “night” side. It’s safe, well-organized, and truly memorable to see those tulips lit up in technicolour after dark.

(Just a tip: Canberra spring nights can be chilly, often dropping to single-digit temperatures, so dress warmly – bring that coat, beanie, and maybe a blanket to snuggle under while watching a performance! NightFest goes ahead in most weather, so also carry an umbrella or raincoat if the forecast hints at rain.)

How Floriade Blooms for Canberra's Economy

While visitors come for the tulips, Floriade delivers much more than just pretty petals to the nation's capital. The festival has become a serious economic powerhouse for the ACT, with its impact growing stronger each year.

In 2024, Floriade achieved record-breaking results, welcoming 470,422 visitors who pumped an impressive $62.4 million into the local economy – a remarkable 22% jump from the previous year. Nearly half of all attendees (46%) travelled specifically to Canberra for the festival, booking 221,866 visitor nights and spending $48.8 million with local businesses, hotels, restaurants and shops. This represents the highest visitor spend in Floriade's 38-year history.

The economic benefits ripple throughout the community. Hotels report near-capacity bookings, restaurants extend their hours to cope with demand, and local retailers see significant sales spikes. Even in the pre-COVID benchmark year of 2019, when 507,550 people attended, approximately half were tourists injecting around $45 million into the economy. The 2023 figures showed this momentum building, with 433,271 visitors generating $51.1 million in total economic impact.

Beyond the dollars, Floriade creates lasting community connections. In 2022, for instance, 300,000 bulbs and annuals were shared with over 100 local groups through the Floriade Community program after the festival ended. Survey data from 2023 revealed that 81% of visitors said Floriade met or exceeded their expectations, with 68% planning a return trip – ensuring the economic benefits continue to bloom year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the dates for Floriade 2025?

Floriade will bloom from Saturday 13 September through Sunday 12 October 2025. Mark your calendar for a full month of flower displays, live performances and community events.

When does Floriade open and close each day?

Gates welcome visitors at 9:30 am and close promptly at 5:30 pm daily. Plan to arrive early for the best light on the gardens and to make the most of the day.

What is the 2025 theme for Floriade?

This year’s celebration is themed “Science and Nature.” Garden beds will draw inspiration from physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology and botany—turning Commonwealth Park into an interactive space of discovery.

Where exactly is Floriade held?

You’ll find Floriade in Commonwealth Park, along Regatta Place in the suburb of Parkes, Canberra. It’s a short stroll from the city centre and easily reached via public transport or car.

Do I need to buy tickets or register to attend?

No entry ticket or pre-registration is required for the general festival—Floriade is completely free. However, some specialised workshops and NightFest evening sessions do require paid tickets, which are linked on the event pages.

Are there baby-care and feeding facilities on site?

Yes. A dedicated baby-care room includes:

1. A change table

2. Comfortable seating for breast or bottle feeding

3. Microwaves for warming or sterilising equipment

4. Nearby accessible toilets (all of which have change tables)
   A venue map with its location will be released closer to opening.

How can I stay up to date with Floriade news?

Follow Floriade Australia on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to their newsletter via the link on the official site. You’ll get alerts on programme announcements, ticket launches and special activities.

When is NightFest, and what are its hours?

NightFest runs from Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October 2025. Each evening the gates swing open at 6:30 pm and stay lit up until 10:30 pm, featuring illuminated installations, live music and food vendors.

Is Floriade accessible for visitors with mobility needs?

Absolutely. The festival offers:

• Accessible parking and drop-off zones

• Wide, mostly level paths (some loose gravel)

• Wheelchair, scooter and walking frame hire services

• Accessible toilet facilities throughout the site

• A dedicated Sensory Hour on weekdays from 9:30 am–10:30 am (excluding public holidays)

How can I become a Floriade volunteer?

If you’d like to join the team, sign up via the Volunteers page on the Floriade website. Add your details to the mailing list and you’ll be contacted when applications for the next festival open.

(Fun fact: The first Floriade was held in 1988 as a one-off event for Canberra’s 75th birthday and Australia’s Bicentenary. It was so successful that it became an annual event from 1989 onwards. So 2025 will be the 38th Floriade! Over the decades it’s grown into the huge festival we know today.)

What happens to the flowers after Floriade? 

This is a question many people ask when they see the millions of blooms at Floriade – what becomes of all these flowers once the festival is over? Rest assured, the flowers continue to spread joy and are not simply thrown away. Here’s what typically happens once Floriade ends:

The Great Big Bulb Dig

Floriade features a lot of spring bulbs (tulips, daffodils, etc.). Traditionally, on the day after Floriade closes, an event called the Great Big Bulb Dig takes place. In 2024, for example, the Monday after the festival was open to participants to come and dig up tulip bulbs to take home. Visitors purchase an official bag (proceeds go to charity) and fill it with bulbs they dig out from the garden beds. It’s a wonderful way for garden enthusiasts to take a piece of Floriade home to plant in their own gardens, and it ensures the bulbs get reused for future blooms. All funds raised from these bulb sales go to local charities. We can expect a similar Bulb Dig event in 2025 – so if you’ve ever wanted your very own Floriade tulips, keep an eye out for announcements toward the end of the festival! It’s first-come, first-served, and quite a sight to see hundreds of people with trowels and buckets scouring the flower beds once the official event is over.

Flower Donations and Recycling

Many of the cut flowers and potted plants used in displays are often donated or repurposed. Floriade organizers have in the past donated flowers to local hospitals, nursing homes, and community organizations to brighten others’ day after the festival. The idea is to spread the joy of Floriade to those who couldn’t visit. You might imagine bouquets of leftover blooms cheering up a hospital ward – a lovely thought! Additionally, any plant material that isn’t taken by people is usually composted by the city’s park services. The organic matter gets recycled into mulch or compost, which may even be used in the gardens around Canberra. So, the cycle of life continues.

Replanting and Planning for Next Year

As soon as Floriade finishes, preparation for the next year quietly begins. Gardeners and city workers will clear the beds and start conditioning the soil. They sometimes plant summer flowers or green manure crops in the interim. The tulip bulbs that remain in the ground (not collected in the Bulb Dig) might be lifted and stored, or some might be left to naturalize if they can. However, Canberra’s climate means tulips often need to be replanted fresh each year. The Floriade team will evaluate which flowers worked well and start dreaming up designs for the next festival – and by autumn, they’ll be planting bulbs again for winter’s dormancy, so that come next spring, Floriade is blooming anew. In short, nothing really goes to waste – the flowers either find new homes, are gifted to the community, or return to the earth to nurture future growth. As one organizer put it, it’s nice to see the beautiful Floriade flowers “recycled and reused” rather than just tossed out.

Best Time to Visit Floriade 2025

Floriade runs for a month, and the experience can vary slightly depending on when you go. Here are some tips on choosing the best time to visit for an optimal experience:

Peak Bloom

Generally, the end of September and the beginning of October is when Floriade’s flower displays are at their peak. By late September, the majority of tulips and other bulbs have opened up, so you’ll see the garden beds in full glory. Early in the festival (mid-September), some of the later-blooming tulips might still be green buds, though there will be plenty of early flowers and colorful annuals already out. If you come in the first week, you’ll catch the fresh excitement of opening, but if you aim for the second or third week of Floriade, you’re more likely to see every garden bed overflowing with blooms. Towards the very end (early October), a few flowers (like early tulips) may start to fade, but the gardeners often plan a succession of blooms so that late-season flowers (like poppies or violas) keep the displays vibrant through to closing week. There’s really no bad time in that window – the festival team ensures there’s always a stunning display – but if we had to pick, the last week of September is often a sweet spot for both blooms and weather.

Weather Considerations

Canberra’s spring weather can be a bit unpredictable. September starts cool – you might get chilly mornings (~5–10°C) and mild afternoons (15–20°C). By early October, it warms up a bit, with afternoons sometimes reaching the low 20s °C, and nights still cool. Rain is always a possibility in spring, but extended washouts are uncommon; usually it might be a passing shower. To be safe, check the forecast before you plan your day. A sunny day in late September with the flowers in full bloom is pretty much perfect. If you’re aiming for a comfortable experience, late September and early October often have lovely mild weather – not too hot, not too cold. Just remember to slip on some sunscreen if it’s a clear day (the Canberra sun can have a bit of bite even when it’s cool).

Weekday vs Weekend

Floriade is most crowded on weekends, especially the opening weekend and during school holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience to leisurely enjoy the flowers and take photos without too many people around, try visiting on a weekday (Monday to Friday). Weekday mornings in particular are wonderfully peaceful – you might feel like you have the park to yourself except for some avid gardeners and maybe a school group or two. The flip side is, on weekends there tends to be more programming (e.g., more performances, special events like Dogs’ Day Out or concerts). So it depends on what you value more: atmosphere or elbow room. Many locals love weekday visits to really appreciate the gardens, and perhaps return on a weekend for the buzz and events.

Time of Day

If you’re an early bird, mornings at Floriade are gorgeous. The light is soft for photography, the flowers are perky after the dew, and you can often snag a good parking spot or beat the crowds. By midday and afternoon, the festival is in full swing with music and entertainment – great if you want more lively energy. Late afternoon (say after 3pm) can be a nice quieter window again as some people start to leave; just keep in mind gates close by 5:30pm. If you want to catch sunset light on the flowers, that can be magical too – an hour before closing, the golden sun on the tulips with fewer people around is a treat (just don’t cut it too fine, as you’ll need to exit when it closes).

In summary, for the optimal Floriade experience consider a late September weekday late morning or early afternoon: chances are you’ll get peak blooms, decent weather, and manageable crowds. But whenever you go, Floriade has its charms – early on you see the festival freshly blooming, and later on you feel the crescendo of colour. If you can, some people visit multiple times (since it’s free!) to catch different flowers at different stages. Even a rainy day at Floriade can be fun if you bring a raincoat and gumboots – the colours of tulips actually pop against a grey sky, and you might have more space to yourself.

Travel and Accommodation Tips for Floriade

Planning ahead can make your Floriade trip much more enjoyable. Here are some handy travel and accommodation tips for both tourists and locals:

Getting to Floriade (Commonwealth Park):

By Car

Commonwealth Park is in central Canberra, and there is some parking available nearby, but it fills up quickly on popular days. The closest parking is at the Regatta Point and Lawson Crescent carparks (near the Commonwealth Park entrance). Parking is limited and can be busy, especially on weekends. There may be paid parking fees on weekdays or time limits, so check signage. A smart idea is to go early in the morning to snag a spot. The Regatta Point carpark is recommended if you do drive (The Insider Guide To Floriade In Canberra | Australian Traveller). Alternatively, park in the city (Civic) and take a short walk across the footbridge into the park. On very busy days (like weekends or public holidays), some people even park across the lake at the National Library or National Gallery and walk over – but that’s a bit of a hike.

Public Transport

ACTion buses (Canberra’s public buses) operate regular services that stop near Commonwealth Park or the City interchange (a 10-minute walk away). During Floriade, there are often special shuttle buses running from the city centre to Floriade’s entrance (The Insider Guide To Floriade In Canberra | Australian Traveller). For instance, in previous years a free Floriade shuttle bus looped from Canberra CBD to the event on a frequent schedule (The Insider Guide To Floriade In Canberra | Australian Traveller). Keep an eye on the Transport Canberra website or Floriade’s official info for any 2025 shuttle details. Using public transport can save you the hassle of parking and is a relaxing way to arrive.

By Bike or On Foot

Canberra is a very bike-friendly city with good paths. If you’re local or staying nearby, consider cycling to Floriade. There are bike racks at the park entrances, and sometimes even a valet bike parking service during Floriade (to encourage greener transport). The ride around Lake Burley Griffin is lovely. Walking is also a great option if you’re staying in the city or around Acton/Barton; many hotels are within a 1-2 km walk. As a bonus, you won’t have to worry about parking at all.

Rideshare/Taxi

Rideshare services like Uber and taxis are readily available in Canberra. You can get dropped off at the designated drop-off points near the park (e.g., near Regatta Point). This could be a good option if you’re coming in a group and want door-to-door convenience, especially for NightFest when it’s dark and you might not want to walk far.

Accommodation Tips:

If you’re coming from out of town for Floriade 2025, booking your accommodation early is highly recommended. Floriade draws many visitors, including tour groups, so hotels can book out fast, especially for weekends or the NightFest period.

Where to Stay

The best locations to stay are City Centre (Civic) or NewActon or Lake Burley Griffin precinct, basically anywhere in Canberra’s central areas. These will put you within walking distance or a short drive/bus ride of Commonwealth Park. There are many options ranging from high-end hotels to serviced apartments and budget hostels in the city. Being close means you can easily go to Floriade in the morning, maybe pop back to your hotel for a rest (or drop off your newly bought plants!) and even return for the evening if you have NightFest tickets.

Hotels & Deals

Because Floriade is a known event, some hotels offer Floriade packages or special deals. For example, hotels like the Mercure, Hyatt, Crowne Plaza, etc., often host Floriade visitors. Check if they have packages that include breakfast or even shuttle service to Floriade. The Mercure Canberra was an official partner in 2024, so they might have something special for 2025 too. It never hurts to mention you’re visiting for Floriade – sometimes hotels provide maps, or little perks like a drink voucher or a picnic rug to borrow.

Alternate Stays

Besides hotels, consider serviced apartments (good for families or longer stays to have a kitchen) or Airbnb/home-stays in the inner north or inner south of Canberra. Areas like Braddon, Acton, Turner, or Kingston are not far from the action either. Even staying in the suburbs is okay since Canberra is quite small and you can drive anywhere within 20 minutes; just factor in morning traffic if coming from afar.

Camping/Caravan

If you’re a camper or caravanner, Canberra has options like the Exhibition Park campground or Alivio Tourist Park. Spring is a nice time for camping (not too hot), but nights can be cold, so come prepared. These are a bit further out (10-15 minute drive to Floriade), but can be a fun, budget-friendly way to stay, especially for families on road trips.

Tips for Locals (or Anyone Driving In):

Plan Your Visit Timing

Locals know that attempting to drive and park at Floriade at 11am on a sunny Sunday will be hectic. If you can go earlier or later, do so. Alternatively, consider going in the late afternoon on a weekday after work for an hour or two – you can catch the flowers in golden hour light and it’s less busy.

Use Public Transport or Walk/Cycle

It bears repeating – skip the parking woes by taking a quick bus ride from your suburb. ACTION’s Blue Rapid line, for instance, can get you to the city from Tuggeranong, Woden, or Belconnen fairly quickly, and then it’s a short walk. On weekends, some extra bus services often run. Many locals also bike in along the lake cycle paths – it’s part of the fun!

Avoiding Crowds

If you want to avoid the most crowded times, maybe skip the opening weekend (everyone rushes in out of excitement) and the final weekend (when people realize it’s their last chance). Mid-festival weekends can still be busy but a bit more bearable. And as mentioned, weekdays are your friend if you have the flexibility.

General Tips:

Dress Comfortably

Wear good walking shoes as you’ll be on your feet a lot, wandering through gardens and market stalls. The terrain is mostly flat and paths are well maintained (also wheelchair and stroller accessible), but you’ll cover some ground to see everything. Spring weather means dressing in layers – mornings can be brisk, afternoons warm, and it can get cool if the wind picks up or if you stay into the evening. Have a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sunny days (there’s lots of open area with direct sun), and keep a light jacket or cardigan handy if clouds roll in.

Facilities

There are plenty of toilets on-site (including accessible ones and baby change facilities). ATMs used to be on-site, but now with tap-and-go, most stalls take cards. Still, a little cash can help for small vendors or donations. There’s an information tent at the entrance where you can grab a map and schedule. There are also first aid and lost child points – show your kids the volunteers in case you get separated.

Bringing Your Own Picnic

You’re allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into Floriade, so locals often pack a picnic. It’s lovely to sit by the lake or under a blossom tree and have lunch. Just note that alcohol can’t be brought in, but you can buy it inside at licensed areas. Also, bring a reusable water bottle – there are water refill stations and it’s important to stay hydrated while walking around.

Accommodation Transport

If you’re staying at a hotel in the city, check if they have shuttles or if the free Floriade shuttle is near. Some hotels might even offer bike rentals, which could be a fun way to get to the park.

Explore Canberra

Finally, if you’re visiting from out of town, consider exploring more of Canberra around your Floriade visit. The Australian War Memorial, National Gallery, Questacon (great for kids), and Parliament House are all relatively close by. Since you’re here for the flowers, you might also enjoy the Australian National Botanic Gardens or Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve for a dose of Aussie flora in its natural habitat. And if you’re up for it, a short drive to Tulip Top Gardens (a private garden north of Canberra) is another spring flower wonderland usually open around the same time as Floriade.

Floriade 2025 in Canberra is set to be a floral extravaganza you won’t want to miss. With free entry in the daytime, it’s a welcoming event for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned green thumb, a family looking for a fun day out, or a couple seeking a romantic spring outing. You’ll get to enjoy spectacular flower displays, live entertainment, markets, and delicious food, all in the beautiful outdoor setting of Commonwealth Park. If you’re up for something extra special, grab tickets for the NightFest to see the gardens in a magical new light. We’ve answered some common questions – yes, it’s free; yes, it’s absolutely worth it! – and given you tips on making the most of your visit.

Sources: 

• Floriade official website 
• Floriade 2025 — VisitCanberra
• Floriade NightFest tickets
• Science and Nature in Full Bloom at Floriade 2025 (EventsACT)
• Floriade FAQs